Mogadishu, Somalia – Thursday
The Federal Government of Somalia has appointed General Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud as the new Commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), replacing General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, according to an official statement released by the Office of the Prime Minister on Thursday.
The decision was endorsed during a meeting of the Council of Ministers, reflecting the government’s continued efforts to recalibrate and strengthen the country’s national security leadership.
Prior to his appointment, General Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud served as the Commander of the Somali National Army’s Support Forces, a role in which he was responsible for logistics, operational support, and force readiness. His promotion to army chief places him at the helm of Somalia’s ground forces at a critical time for the country’s security sector.
The leadership change comes as Somalia intensifies its campaign against terrorism, particularly against Al-Shabab, while also addressing broader security challenges related to stabilization, institutional reform, and the transition of security responsibilities from international partners to Somali-led forces.
Government officials say the appointment is part of wider reforms aimed at enhancing command efficiency, improving coordination within the armed forces, and accelerating progress toward a self-reliant national security architecture.
General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, who previously led the Somali National Army, is credited with overseeing key operations against militant groups and contributing to ongoing military restructuring efforts.
Horncurrent will continue to follow developments related to Somalia’s security sector reforms and the impact of the new military leadership on the country’s counter-terrorism operations.